3% Solar Shades in Austin, TX
Solar shades are woven so you can still see out while they cut glare, heat, and UV. The openness percentage tells you how much of the weave is open. At 3%, the weave is tight, so it blocks more sun and gives more daytime privacy than a 5%.
3% is our usual recommendation for hard-hit west- and south-facing windows in Central Texas.
How solar shades work
Solar fabric is a woven screen. The openness factor is the share of the weave that's open: 3% means 97% of the surface is fabric. That tighter weave stops more glare, heat, and UV than a more open screen, while you can still see out during the day.
A 3% solar shade blocks roughly 97% of UV rays. Darker colors give the clearest view out and the best glare control; lighter colors reflect more heat.
Why we recommend them in Central Texas
West- and south-facing windows in Austin take a beating from 3 p.m. to sunset, and 3% is the openness we recommend most for those windows. It noticeably cools the room, takes the glare off TVs and screens, and slows fading on floors and furniture without turning the room dark.
It's also a good fit for offices and homes where neighbors are close, since the tighter weave adds a little more daytime privacy than 5%.
Benefits
What you get with custom solar shades from ATX Blinds & Draperies.
Strong glare control
The tight weave cuts glare on screens and bright west light.
Keeps your view
You can still see outside during the day.
About 97% UV blocked
Helps protect hardwood, leather, rugs, and art from fading.
More daytime privacy
Slightly more privacy than a 5% screen.
Best for
- West- and south-facing windows
- TV rooms with glare
- Protecting floors and furniture from fading
- Offices with screen glare
Options
- Dark or light fabric colors
- Chain, cordless, or motorized
- Interior or exterior
- Pairs well with draperies
- Smart hub for phone app and voice control, at home or away
Good to know
- Like all solar shades, 3% is see-through at night when lights are on inside. Pair with draperies or a dual shade for night privacy.
- The view is slightly dimmer than through a 5% screen.
What affects the price
- Size of each window (wider and taller costs more)
- Fabric or material you choose
- Lift system: chain, cordless, or motorized
- Mounting hardware, cassettes, or tracks
- Number of windows (larger orders often price better per window)
- Specialty shapes and hard-to-reach installs
Every quote is free, in writing, and broken down by window. See our cost guide.
Our process
Consultations are available seven days a week.
Free consultation
We come to you with samples and look at every window, how it faces, and how the room is used.
Measure & quote
We measure every window precisely and send a written quote within 24 hours.
Professional install
We install, test, and clean up. Products are covered by manufacturer warranties.
Care & maintenance
A few minutes now and then keeps them looking new.
Dusting
Dust every few weeks with a microfiber cloth, a feather duster, or the soft brush on your vacuum set to low suction. Regular dusting keeps buildup from settling into the weave.
Spot cleaning
Blot small marks with a soft cloth dampened with water and a little mild soap. Blot, don't rub, and let the fabric dry fully before you raise the shade.
Everyday use
Raise and lower the shade with the chain, bottom bar, or motor, never by pulling on the fabric. If it starts rolling unevenly, call us and we'll adjust it.
Solar shades, 3% openness: common questions
Have another question? Call (512) 751-8408.
Should I choose 3% or 5% solar shades?
3% blocks more heat and glare and gives a bit more daytime privacy. 5% keeps a clearer view. Strong afternoon sun usually calls for 3%.
Which color solar shade has the best view?
Darker colors are usually easier to see through and cut glare better. Lighter colors reflect more heat. We'll bring both to compare.
How much UV does a 3% solar shade block?
About 97%, which helps protect floors, furniture, and art.
Do 3% solar shades darken a room?
They reduce brightness and glare but don't make a room dark. For darkness, choose blackout.
Can I see out of a 3% solar shade at night?
Not well. At night with lights on inside, people can see in, and you'll see your reflection more than the outside.
Can I control motorized shades from my phone?
Yes. Add a smart hub and you can raise, lower, group, and schedule everything from an app on your phone, at home or away, and connect to popular voice assistants.
Helpful guides
More detail before you decide.
3% vs. 5% Solar Shades: Which Openness Is Right for Texas Sun?
3% or 5% solar shades? How openness affects heat, glare, UV, view and privacy, which to use on west-facing windows, and why color matters as much as percentage..
The Best Window Treatments for West-Facing Windows in Texas
West-facing windows heat up Texas homes every afternoon.
Related products
Solar shades, 3% openness near you
Get a free quote on solar shades
Tell us a little about your project. We'll call to set a time that works, any day of the week, and bring our mobile showroom to you.
(512) 751-8408Text us: (512) 751-8408info@austintexasblinds.comConsultations available Monday through Sunday.
What happens next
- We call you from (512) 751-8408, usually the same day. Save our number so you know it's us.
- No answer? We'll text you from the same number to find a good time.
- We bring the showroom to you: samples at your windows, and we measure everything.
- Written quote within 24 hours. No obligation, no pressure.